Sardis had a long history with periods of considerable wealth and then substantial decline. In the years prior to Jesus writing his letter to the church in Sardis, the town appears to have experienced a considerable economic revival. Its location on the main road from Asia to Palestine boosted the standard of living in this city. This growing prosperity may well have contributed to some of the criticism the Lord levels against the church in this town.
1 “And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: ‘The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. “‘I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead.